Chavez served as a member of the New Mexico State Senate from 1989-93. He was elected mayor of Albuquerque in 1993 and served till 1997. In 2001 Chavez was Democratic candidate for Governor of New Mexico. Chavez was elected again 2001.

Chavez reported as of May 7, 2007 having raised $145,346 with cash on hand $62,341.